Ingredient review
Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate
INCI: SODIUM PEG-3 LAURAMIDE CARBOXYLATE
A gentle, synthetic surfactant that effectively cleanses without stripping the skin, making it a good choice for sensitive skin.
In plain English
Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from lauric acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin and hair without causing excessive dryness or irritation. Unlike harsh soaps, it is less likely to disrupt the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic surfactant derived from lauric acid and PEG, designed to provide gentle cleansing with low irritation potential.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its mild amphiphilic structure makes it effective at low concentrations and gentle on the skin.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Unlike many traditional surfactants, this ingredient cleanses effectively without causing tightness or irritation, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive or reactive skin.
Low irritation risk
Clinical and consumer data consistently show it has a low potential to cause stinging, redness, or allergic reactions, even in people with compromised skin barriers.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is manufactured through chemical processes, which may be a drawback for those seeking exclusively natural or plant-derived ingredients.
Potential PEG concerns
PEG compounds can sometimes contain trace impurities like ethylene oxide if not properly purified, though reputable manufacturers follow strict safety standards.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin
- Those looking for a mild, everyday cleanser
Use caution if
- Individuals who strictly avoid synthetic or PEG-based ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. As with all PEG-based ingredients, quality control during manufacturing is important to avoid impurities.
Research notes
Limited direct clinical studies, but the broader class of PEG carboxylate surfactants is well-studied and recognized as mild and safe. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has reviewed similar compounds and found them safe for rinse-off use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar PEG carboxylates and found them safe at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Baby care products
- Environmental note
- Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate is biodegradable, but like all surfactants, it should be used in moderation to minimize environmental impact.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in sulfate-free cleansers.
- It is biodegradable and generally considered safe for aquatic environments at typical use levels.
Common questions
What is Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate in beauty products?
Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from lauric acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin and hair without causing excessive dryness or irritation. Unlike harsh soaps, it is less likely to disrupt the skin's natural moisture barrier.
What does Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its mild amphiphilic structure makes it effective at low concentrations and gentle on the skin.
Is Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate safe for most people?
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. As with all PEG-based ingredients, quality control during manufacturing is important to avoid impurities.
Who should be careful with Sodium PEG-3 Lauramide Carboxylate?
Individuals who strictly avoid synthetic or PEG-based ingredients
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.